Expanding Healthcare Access: New Professionals Now Able to Prescribe Sick Leave
A recent French law, quietly passed as part of the 2026 financing bill for social security, is set to reshape how workers access sick leave. The change extends the authority to prescribe arrêts de travail (work stoppages) beyond traditional doctors to include dentists and midwives. This seemingly small shift has the potential to significantly reduce wait times and improve access to care, particularly in areas with physician shortages.
Why the Change? Addressing Healthcare Bottlenecks
France, like many developed nations, faces increasing pressure on its healthcare system. Long wait times for doctor appointments are a common complaint, and this can be particularly problematic when an employee needs a sick note quickly. The new law aims to alleviate this burden by leveraging the expertise of other healthcare professionals. According to a 2023 survey by the Conseil National de l’Ordre des Médecins (National Council of the Order of Physicians), average wait times to see a general practitioner in France are now over 11 days in some regions. Extending prescription rights to dentists and midwives offers a practical solution.
This isn’t simply about convenience. For dental issues requiring time off work – post-surgery recovery, for example – seeing a dentist for both treatment and a sick note streamlines the process. Similarly, midwives are well-equipped to assess the needs of pregnant employees or those recovering from childbirth, making them logical prescribers for related sick leave.
What Does This Mean for Employees and Employers?
For employees, the change means potentially faster access to sick leave when appropriate. No more needing to book a separate appointment with a general practitioner simply to obtain a certificat médical. This is especially beneficial for those in remote areas or with limited access to healthcare.
Employers also stand to benefit. Reduced administrative burdens and quicker access to documentation can improve workforce management. However, it’s crucial that employers understand the new regulations and ensure their policies are updated accordingly. The law mandates that all sick notes, regardless of the prescribing professional, must clearly state the reason for the absence and a precise description of the medical condition. This increased detail aims to reduce ambiguity and potential abuse.
Dentists and Midwives: New Responsibilities and Limitations
While gaining prescription rights, dentists and midwives will operate within defined parameters. A decree will set a maximum duration for sick leave they can prescribe, though it’s guaranteed to be at least one month for initial prescriptions and two months for extensions. They will also have the authority to justify prescribing longer periods if medically necessary. This balance ensures responsible prescribing while providing flexibility for individual patient needs.
Pro Tip: Employers should proactively communicate these changes to their HR departments and employees to ensure a smooth transition and avoid confusion.
The Broader Trend: Expanding Scope of Practice
This move in France aligns with a growing global trend of expanding the scope of practice for various healthcare professionals. In the United States, for example, nurse practitioners and physician assistants are increasingly being granted greater autonomy in prescribing medications and providing primary care. This is driven by a desire to address healthcare shortages, improve access to care, and reduce costs. A 2021 report by the American Medical Association highlighted the potential of expanded scope of practice to address healthcare disparities in underserved communities.
Did you know? The UK has been utilizing pharmacists for minor ailment prescribing for years, freeing up GP time for more complex cases.
Implementation Timeline and Future Considerations
The law was officially published in the Journal Officiel on December 31, 2025, but the changes won’t take effect until September 1, 2026. This delay allows healthcare professionals and employers time to prepare for the new regulations. Looking ahead, it’s likely we’ll see further discussions about expanding prescription rights to other qualified healthcare professionals, such as physiotherapists and psychologists, particularly as mental health concerns continue to rise.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Will this change affect the cost of sick leave for employers?
A: No, the law does not directly address the financial aspects of sick leave. Existing employer obligations regarding social security contributions and sick pay remain unchanged.
Q: What if I disagree with a sick note issued by a dentist or midwife?
A: Employers are not authorized to challenge the medical judgment of a qualified healthcare professional. However, they can request additional documentation if they have legitimate concerns about the validity of the sick note.
Q: Where can I find more information about this law?
A: You can find the official text of the law (in French) on the Légifrance website: https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/
Q: Will the quality of sick notes be consistent across different healthcare professionals?
A: The law mandates that all sick notes contain specific information, aiming for consistency. Ongoing monitoring and potential adjustments to the regulations may be necessary to ensure quality control.
We encourage you to share your thoughts on this evolving healthcare landscape in the comments below. Explore our other articles on French labor law and healthcare policy for more in-depth analysis. Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates and insights.
